This press release was provided by Anytime Fitness. The Club Industry editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content.

If you’ve ever been depressed or experienced self-esteem issues, then five people who were honored by Anytime Fitness (www.anytimefitness.com) as “National Success Story Winners” at the franchise’s annual conference last weekend may inspire you to make significant changes in your own life.

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Each of the five individuals honored by Anytime Fitness faced difficult situations in their own lives, but found the strength to persevere. WATCH THEIR STORIES: http://anytimefitness.com/membership/success-stories

SANDY SIMMERS: Sandy delayed getting pregnant for 10 years because she was overweight and using anti-depressants. Then she joined Anytime Fitness in Hermitage, PA and club staff helped her lose 101 pounds. With her doctor’s okay, even during her ninth month of pregnancy, Sandy ran 150 miles a month. Her water broke while she was on a treadmill at the club. Sandy and her husband seriously considered naming their baby “Fitness” or “Gym,” but they settled on “Miles.”

ROY DAVIS: At age 31, weighing over 300 pounds, Roy developed a rare flesh-eating disease that forced doctors to amputate both of his legs below the knees, and part of all of his fingers, in order to save his life. Instead of feeling sorry for himself, Roy joined Anytime Fitness in West Carrollton, OH and whipped himself into shape. He now competes – sometimes crawling, sometimes clinging to someone else’s back – in “Mud-Stash” runs (5K obstacle courses) with friends and staff from the gym.

DANIELL NIELSEN: A 36-year-old mother of five, Daniell’s husband, Brandon, a deputy sheriff, was shot and killed in the line of duty last fall. Grieving, but also knowing that she needed to be strong for her children, Daniell helped heal herself by joining her local Anytime Fitness club in Destrehan, LA, losing 65 pounds, quitting smoking and beating depression. “No one is born strong,” Daniell says. “Being strong is something we all can choose to do, each and every day.”

MADDIE AUGUSTIN: As a child, Maddie was often picked last in gym class. As a teen, she was frequently combative and battled serious self-esteem issues. Instead of anti-depressants, Maddie’s parents suggested that she give exercise a try for 30 days. Maddie started working out at Anytime Fitness in New Ulm, MN, loved the sense of control it gave her and earned a spot on her university’s crew team. “Exercise is magic,” Maddie says. “It’s given me the confidence to try all sorts of new things.”

CHRIS DUNAWAY: At 440 pounds and depressed after his marriage ended, Chris Dunaway thought he had nowhere to turn for friendship and support. His brother suggested Chris join Anytime Fitness in Ortonville, MI and Chris has now lost more than 240 pounds. “Everyone at the gym – all the members and staff – is so supportive,” Chris said. “The gym is where I find my strength, both physically and emotionally.”

To celebrate the achievements of these five extraordinary individuals, Anytime Fitness clubs all over the country are making it easier for local residents to start changing their own lives. For one day only, October 8th, new members can join for just $8. Call or stop by your local Anytime Fitness club for more details.

About Anytime Fitness

Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness is now the fastest-growing fitness club franchise in the world, with nearly 2,000,000 members and more than 2,300 clubs worldwide. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Anytime Fitness prides itself on providing its members with convenient and affordable fitness options in friendly, well-maintained facilities which feature top-quality exercise equipment. Clubs are now open in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, England, Scotland, Grand Cayman, Poland, the Netherlands, Qatar, Spain, India, Chile and Japan. Join one club and use them all. Members also enjoy free access to AnytimeHealth.com, the most comprehensive wellness website available.